Fluid Retention and Fluid Restriction

Water retention, also known as fluid retention refers to an excessive build up of fluid in the circulatory system, body tissues, or cavities in the body. Up to 70% of the human body consists of water – water exists both inside and outside our body’s cells.

What is fluid restriction?

Fluid restriction means that you need to limit the amount of liquids you have each day. Fluid restriction is needed if your body is holding water. This is called fluid retention. Fluid retention can cause health problems, such as tissue and blood vessel damage, long-term swelling, and stress on the heart.

Why do dialysis patients have fluid restrictions?

This means, in the days between your dialysis treatments, your body holds on to excess fluid and waste your kidneys cannot remove. Going over your recommended fluid allowance can cause swelling and increase your blood pressure, which makes your heart work harder.

Is fluid restriction different for those doing home hemo-dialysis rather than in center hemo-dialysis?

Yes. Patients on home hemo-dialysis have a less strict fluid restriction. Reason being, they have more dialysis treatments throughout the week, which gives them the flexibility to pull more fluid off.

If you exceed your fluid allowance, there is a chance an extra dialysis treatment will be needed to pull the remaining fluid off.

What is the average amount dialysis patients doing in center treatments can drink daily?

32 ounces. This amount varies on the amount of urine your body can produce. Sometimes dialysis patients stop urinating all together. Some do not. If you have an average of about 8 ounces of urine over a 24 hour period, it would be safe to say you could have any where from 32-40 ounces daily. Of course, it is recommended you speak with your doctor and find a good amount for you, since everyone varies. Also upon request they can provide you with a “hat” to set underneath your toilet seat to measure your urine output.

This is just a few questions you may have being answered. If you have any more that I may be of help to, do not hesitate to contact me.